India’s External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on Wednesday that India expects Bangladesh to address security concerns raised by minority organisations ahead of the upcoming Durga Puja celebrations.
The comment was made during the ministry’s bi‑weekly media briefing in New Delhi, where Jaiswal was asked about Bangladesh’s role in the BIMSTEC Home Ministers’ Meeting.
Jaiswal noted Bangladesh’s participation in the meeting, which was hosted by Indian Union Home Minister Amit Shah and resulted in the adoption of the Delhi Declaration, reaffirming member states’ commitment to cooperation in counter‑terrorism, counter‑narcotics and anti‑money‑laundering.
He emphasized that any security issues, particularly those concerning minority groups, should be addressed by the Bangladeshi government to ensure a peaceful Durga Puja festival, which is celebrated by the Hindu minority in Bangladesh.
The statement comes as Bangladesh prepares for Durga Puja, a major religious festival, amid heightened security measures, including the recent deployment of 3,500 Coast Guard personnel across temples, as reported earlier this week.
While India’s expectation focuses on pre‑emptive measures, Bangladeshi authorities have not yet detailed specific actions, but have indicated cooperation with regional partners under BIMSTEC frameworks.
Analysts note that addressing minority‑related security concerns is important for maintaining communal harmony and for the broader strategic relationship between the two neighbours.
The dialogue underscores the role of BIMSTEC as a platform for addressing cross‑border security challenges and fostering regional stability.
Why it matters
Resolving minority‑related security concerns is essential for a peaceful Durga Puja celebration and for sustaining regional stability between India and Bangladesh.